TNAG-2493-FCO40-3625-Future-of-Hong-Kong-constitutional-development-Chinese-reac-1992 — Page 6

IN CONFIDENCE

the Chinese behind the backs of Hong Kong people. Rather he

felt that he should make public his proposals so that Hong

Kong people would have the opportunity to demonstrate exactly what they felt about them. It has always been our intention that if there were counter proposals (from the Chinese or

from any other force) which meet the criteria (agreed to by

the Chinese) of fairness, openness and acceptability to the people of Hong Kong then we would be prepared to consider

them. Ultimately it would be for LegCo to decide, in the

face of Chinese reactions, what the arrangements for the 1995

elections should be.

7.

At present there continues to be a wide measure of

support in Hong Kong for the Governor's proposals extending

beyond the main UDHK grouping. We intend to continue to

press the Chinese to discuss rationally the proposals made by

the Governor. However, providing he has continued support in

LegCo, the community and in the absence of any reasons from

the Chinese, we are prepared to put them forward to LegCo as the basis for legislation (modified in light of any

acceptable amendments proposed).

shona1.DIC

RB

IN CONFIDENCE